The rapid
response fund

The Rapid Response Fund is currently closed. For nine years, the Rapid Response Fund has provided a lifeline to community-based organisations on the frontline of supporting LGBTQ+ people, sex workers, and people who use drugs. 

The Rapid Response Fund is the first of its kind to channel emergency support directly to communities to support the health and rights of people living with and affected by HIV.

Since 2016, the Rapid Response Fund has disbursed over $5.7million and supported over 400 organisations to respond to immediate and long-term crises. These organisations have helped to mitigate current challenges and advocate for change, often operating in challenging circumstances and against a backdrop of violence, intimidation and state-endorsed discrimination.

With the support of the Rapid Response Fund, organisations have been able to quickly respond to emergencies. They have protected colleagues and community members at risk of violence by relocating them and by strengthening security measures. From providing legal support to displaced people in Malawi, to supporting action on policy reform for trans people in Cameroon, the Rapid Response Fund leaves a powerful legacy of positive changes led by communities.

RAPID RESPONSE FUND IN NUMBERS

The Rapid Response Fund is currently low on funds and will pause issuing grants while we work with partners to redefine the next phase and mobilise further funds for community-based organisations supporting the health and rights of marginalised people.

We would like to express our immense pride and gratitude to the organisations who have worked with us to fight for communities to have equal and safe access to HIV and SRHR services without fear, stigma or discrimination.

As we move forward, we know our work in defending human rights is more important than ever. We will continue to work with community and civil society organisations and funders to catalyse the kind of joined up and sustained support that is needed to turn the tide toward health and human rights for everyone, everywhere.